Reducing your carbon emissions

Business has a major role to play in transitioning Aotearoa New Zealand to a net zero carbon economy by 2050. More urgently, we need to make substantial progress towards that goal by 2030 to minimise emissions and curb the worst effects of climate change. Consumers and investors have rising expectation of business to 'do the right thing'. This is a major opportunity for businesses. Inaction however can be a major risk. Climate change is already putting major pressure on our environment, our access to natural resources, causing biodiversity loss.

Why act on climate?

Competitive edge. Taking climate action can drive innovation and put you ahead of the competition.
Meet and exceed customers expectations. Increasingly, customers are expecting businesses to play their part in addressing the climate crisis.
Increase appeal to key stakeholders. Being climate-responsible helps to attract and retain talented people. It is also an increasing expectation of investors and other stakeholders.
Save money. Being more efficient with energy and resources reduces costs and emissions.
Be future-ready. A plan to become a low carbon and climate resilient business will prepare your business for the future.
Expectations of clients and customers. Government agencies and larger businesses increasingly have expectations of their suppliers in terms of climate action.
Carbon Neutral Government Programme. Public sector agencies have to start reporting and this will require an understanding of supplier emissions.
Climate-related financial disclosures legislation. This directly affects larger financial and insurance-related businesses. These obligations will also place requirements and expectations on their customers and suppliers.
Carbon pricing. The Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) directly affects a small percentage of large businesses. But, as carbon prices continue to increase, businesses that have carbon-intensive operations, products and services, will experience increased costs.